Many youth athletes quietly struggle with eating disorders – Colorado mandates new training that could turn things around

A recent study found that 77.7% of youth athletes were at risk of developing an eating disorder.

By: Erin Harrop, University of Denver, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: August 18, 2026

Words: 1,260

Last Updated: 5 hours, 19 minutes ago

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By Erin Harrop, University of Denver

Colorado requires middle, junior high and high school coaches in public and private schools to attend training on mental health. Currently, training is required to cover concerns specific to young athletes such as anxiety disorders, depression and suicide prevention.

These training requirements result from 2026 legislation called Alyssa’s Youth Concussion and Mental Health Protection Act. It was named after a young athlete who died by suicide at …

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